How to Write a Clear Job Request for Home Services
Use the request to describe the work you want assessed: the problem, its location, photographs, access arrangements and preferred timing. State what you know and what still needs checking. Ask anyone who replies to explain what their offer includes and what needs an assessment before they can confirm the scope or price.
Describe the symptom and the thing, not just the trade
For example: "The kitchen mixer tap drips from the spout, about a drop a second, and I first noticed it last week." This describes an observation, not a diagnosis. Ask the professional what else they need to assess the cause, suitable parts and scope before confirming a price or duration.
If you know the make or age of the fitting, say so. If you do not, say that too — it is useful information.
Show the item and its surroundings safely
If you can take photos safely, show the affected item and a wider view of the space around it. Keep people, address labels, access codes and personal documents out of the frame. Describe anything the photos do not show, such as an obstruction or an unknown fitting model. Do not open equipment or climb to get a picture; ask the professional what information they need before you agree to the work.
Say when, and how flexible you are
State your preferred date and time, any alternative windows, and any deadline that matters for the work. Explain which details are flexible and which still need confirmation, such as building access. Ask any professional you are considering to confirm the timing before you rely on a visit; entering a time in a request does not confirm an appointment.
Explain the access
Describe relevant access arrangements: stairs or a lift, parking restrictions and any registration required by building management. Mark anything that still needs confirmation. Ask the professional whether these arrangements affect the proposed scope, timing or charges; agree on those details before a visit. Keep access codes and personal documents out of public descriptions and photographs.
Be honest about what you have tried
Describe any previous assessment or work, when it happened and what changed afterward. Say if you do not know which parts were used or what was done. Share relevant information without including another person’s contact details or private documents. Ask what still needs assessment; do not repeat a repair attempt just to demonstrate the problem.
Say what you have already bought
List any parts or materials you already have, including model numbers if known. Ask the professional to confirm whether they are suitable for the proposed work before assuming they can be used. If you need materials supplied, ask whether sourcing, delivery and any additional items are included in the offer; confirm responsibility for purchasing them.
Describe where the work is located and any known access restrictions, including work at height. Ask the professional to assess the access method and equipment needed. Do not assume that a ladder or equipment you already own is suitable, and do not climb or open fittings to obtain information for the request.
Compare the offers on more than the number
If you receive offers, compare the work, materials, disposal and pricing method each includes. Ask about any unclear item before agreeing to the work.
Already have two offers? Use our handyman quote comparison checklist to clarify scope, exclusions and extra charges before choosing.
Use follow-up questions to clarify the scope and record the answers. A helpful message alone does not establish whether someone is suitable for your task; check the person or business you are considering before choosing.
Questions people ask
How much detail is too much?
There is no such thing for the problem itself. Where to stop is the solution — describing what is wrong is your job, deciding how to fix it is theirs.
Should I put my budget in the request?
If you have a spending limit, explain what it needs to cover. The request form lets you enter a budget or select Negotiable if the amount still needs discussion. Ask any professional you are considering to clarify the scope, materials and possible additional charges before you agree to the work.
Can I ask for one pro specifically?
If a profile shows an “Order from this pro” button, you can use it to start a request for that professional. Check the selected professional on the request form before submitting. Sending a request does not confirm that they will accept it or attend; agree the work and timing with them before relying on a visit.
What happens after I accept an offer?
You agree the time, scope and price in chat. The pro completes the work and you check it against the agreed scope. In the UAE you then pay by card through HandyMan, as set out in the Terms; outside the UAE you settle directly with the pro.
Post what needs doing and compare offers from pros near you.
Post a request